IT has been a nervous wait for many pupils, but A-level results day has almost arrived.

Students from across the town will be picking up those much-anticipated results tomorrow, Thursday.

For many, the day will be spent celebrating after finally gaining the grades to accept a place at university.

Unfortunately for some, it will be a mad dash into clearing where they will spend a much trickier day in front of the computer filled with countless phone calls to the university admission teams.

Last year, students in Warrington eclipsed the national pass rate with 99.3 per cent of students achieving a pass grade and it hoped this year’s students will continue to buck the trend.

But, for those in need of support, the Careers Centre for Young People in Times Square will be open to provide advice and guidance on taking the next step in training and education.

Now that the nail-biting wait is almost over, the Warrington Guardian will be out and about in schools talking to students and teachers to see if their hard work had paid off.

To keep up to date on results day follow our live blog at warrringtonguardian.co.uk.

UNIVERSITY is not the right fit for everyone. There are many alternative options available to those who miss out on the grades to go to university or simply fancy taking a different pathway to employment.

Many will find that their skills are better suited to a more vocational route and there are plenty of alternative options available in Warrington for those who do not wish to take an academic route.

Here are a few schemes and courses on offer in Warrington.

1. Apprenticeships provide an opportunity to enjoy training while gaining valuable experience in a real work environment.

They are also a great way to earn a wage while working alongside experienced staff to learn key skills.

The courses can last between one and four years and successful students will finish with a nationally recognised qualification.

From accountancy to social media, Warrington Collegiate has range of courses - not just apprenticeships - to suit all career aspirations.

For more information call 494494.

2. BTECs are specialist work-related qualifications and are available in a range of sectors.

The qualification has been around for more than 30 years and takes a more practical approach to learning, without missing out any of the important theory on the subject.

Priestley College offers a range of BTECs including public services, computer games design and photography.

This option is free to 16-year-olds after they have finished secondary school.

Warrington Collegiate also offers a range of BTEC courses to suit all tastes and to help you make your dream career a reality.

For more information call 633591.

3. Volunteering is a great way to pick up new skills while helping to make a real difference to the community - and it won’t hurt your CV.

Charities across the town are always in need of willing volunteers.

From St Rocco’s to Warrington Youth Club, the town has a number of charities that could benefit from another pair of hands.

4. The Prince’s Trust Enterprise Programme offers aspiring entrepreneurs the chance to get their hands on start-up grants, funding and effective business support.

The trust helps young people, aged between 18 and 30, to work out if their business idea is a viable venture.

For more details visit princes-trust.org.uk.